Craftcil_Jan2011

Hon’ble Textiles Secretary Announces200 Export Promotion Programmes for 44 Craft Stations Pictures Awaited from EPCH Private Standards for garments, footwear and furniture sectors EPCH at Atlanta Craft & Home Furnishings Market Consumexpo, Moscow IMM Cologne CRAFTCIL • January 2011 1 2 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 Chairman’s Message Dear Fellow Exporters, I take pleasure in sharing that EPCH has once again initiated an extensive exercise to reach out to several craft clusters and offer training through a series of programmes titled, "Awareness of International Standards and Need for Quality Compliance in Major Handicraft Clusters of India". In the past we have successfully reached out to craft pockets in the Northern and Central Regions. We have also conducted export promotion activities in the Southern and Eastern Regions. This time, your Council has charted out 200 programmes for 44 craft stations with special concentration on potential handicraft clusters. I would like to thank the Ministry of Textiles and the O/o DC (Handicrafts) for their immense support & guidance in this regard. I am sure, the new Budget is anxiously awaited by all. Here, I wish to inform that an EPCH delegation has met the Hon'ble Finance Minister and presented a pre-budget memorandum, with suggestions for the betterment of our sector. Exemption from Service Tax is among our earnest requests. I hope our industry is able to attract the attention of all concerned at the highest level and is granted relief in the forthcoming budget. As competition intensifies in the global market, there is ever increasing pressure on exporters to adhere to numerous standards set by target export destinations. This issue carries a feature on international standards, certification, ethical trading initiatives, etc. relevant to various sectors. You must be gearing up for the two back-to-back shows i.e. Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair at New Delhi and Indian Furniture & Accessories Show at Jodhpur. I urge all the members to put up a great display at the show and I hope and wish that the two shows would bring in a lot of business to you and also add to overall exports of the handicrafts sector. The Council on its part is leaving no stone unturned in its endeavor to promote the show among overseas buyers. As always, your suggestions and views are important to us, so do write in to me at [email protected]. (Raj Kumar Malhotra) Chairman, EPCH CRAFTCIL • •January 2009 CRAFTCIL August 2011 3 CRAFTCIL Editor Rakesh Kumar Executive Director, EPCH Printed & Published by Rakesh Kumar on behalf of Vol. No. V, Issue No. 8 (January 2011) Inside this issue... Focus ............................................................................. 5 Private Standards ....................................................... 10 Forthcoming Events ....................................................... 22 Business Opportunities .................................................. 22 Impex ............................................................................ 23 News Briefs ...................................................................... 26 Events in India ......................................................... 29 Strategies .................................................................... 30 Events Overseas ................................................................... 33 Trends................................................................................. 36 Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts Published at EPCH House, Pocket 6&7, Sector C, LSC, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi - 70 Tel: 26135256; Fax: 26135518/19 E-mail: [email protected]; URL: www.epch.in Compilation & Presentation: EPB* Production: Chapakhana.com Advertising: Shreya Comnet Tel: +91 11 22246094, 64631211 Email: [email protected] *Establishments Promotion Bureau CRAFTCIL is an in-house journal of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH). The contents of CRAFTCIL are collated for the benefit of its members and the views expressed may not necessarily be those of the Council or the Publishing Agency. Material appearing in CRAFTCIL cannot be reproduced without the prior permission of EPCH in writing. 4 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 East. Lekhraj Maheshwari. Kolkata and Moradabad Having included and guided clusters in various regions like the North. Ministry of Textiles. Mrs. design and product development programmes. Secretary. Mr. Rakesh Kumar. Mr. Sitapur. COA memberEPCH and President. Nirmal Bhandari. Secretary. the Council this time brings into its focus purview. of India. EPCH has once again initiated an extensive exercise to reach out to several craft clusters and offer training through a programme titled. “Awareness of International Standards and Need for Quality Compliance in Major Mrs. Rita Menon. The objectives of the programme can be enumerated as: • To encourage entrepreneurs to export handicraft products. Rita Menon. policies. Secretary. Mr. during a visit to handicrat manufacturing unit The audience at the Symposium CRAFTCIL • January 2011 5 . • To create a platform for marketing of the cottage sector / entrepreneur / exporters to withstand the fierce & competitive international market. with skill. Govt. Textiles. Jodhpur Handicrafts Exporters’ Association (JHEA). • To create awareness about export procedure/ documentation among young entrepreneurs/ craft clusters. Rita Menon. South and Central region towards export promotion. procedures and schemes. Textiles seen with ViceChairman. EPCH and eminent industry members from Jodhpur Mrs. Textiles announces 200 programmes for 44 stations Firsts in the series conducted in Jodhpur. ED. • To create awareness among entrepreneur on govt. the North Western and South Western Regions in India.F ocus EPCH initiates Export Promotion Drive in Craft Clusters Hon’ble Secretary. EPCH. Textiles addresses the gathering at the Symposium Handicraft Clusters of India” . The awareness programmes are being conducted with the active support under the aegis of O/o DC (Handicrafts). • To create manpower for export marketing and awareness of exports of cottage sector produce. Nirmal Bhandari gave credit to EPCH for its contribution in increasing exports from Jodhpur. Mrs. use of . technology upgradation. Rita Menon chairs Symposium To mark the beginning of this exercise. initiated by the Council and instrumental in substantial export orders from this region. Mrs. Mr. General Secretary. EPCH. Hon'ble Secretary. on various important steps integral for export promotion and aggressive marketing of handicrafts. Also present were senior officials from the DGFT. EPCH organised an Symposium on the evening of 22nd January. Bharat Dinesh. Menon spoke at large to the exporting community. Bhandari gave suggestions for the sector’s improvement. Customs. Mr. In her address. 2011 at Common Facility Centre (CFC) Jodhpur Secretary. K K Goel. he spoke of important aspects like product innovation & development. She was welcomed by Mr. Executive Director. On behalf of the exporters of the region. Rita Menon chaired the function and officially initiated the series of 200 specialised programmes in 44 craft stations. JHEA. Stressing on overall development. Mrs. Rakesh Kumar. ED. 2011 at Jodhpur's Hotel Park Plaza. Mr. Textiles. Another objective of this event was to discuss and recommend measures to formulate a road map for 6 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 future promotion of handicraft exports from Rajasthan. CWDB. COA member-EPCH and President. Jodhpur Handicrafts Exporters’ Association (JHEA). WWF and National Awardee Master crafts persons from Jodhpur. Mr.focus Glimpses of the Workshop on Export Marketing Procedure & Documentation and Design Development held on 21st and 22nd January. Mr. Nirmal Bhandari. talking in particular about the Indian Furniture & Accessories Show (IFAS). Textiles. Rakesh Kumar spoke of the future plans of EPCH. Jodhpur and leading exporters from the region. Mr. aimed at the holistic development of the industry. 'Workshop on Export Marketing. and is in accordance to market trends. He guided the audience on how target markets can be selected as per one’s own production capacity/capability. She detailed on : need for innovative design trends with a slide show of existing products in demand in the European markets. value additions required for the forthcoming season.focus Glimpses of the programme on 23rd January. Amla. Eastern. IIFT. Madanlal. On 22nd January. On 21st January. This was followed by the design sessions conducted by Ms.Procedure. these were held from 21st to 24th January. who spoke on product marketing. there were three sessions-one technical and two on design. 2011. how products can be tuned to suit particular consumer segments as well as the need to bring in required changes as per market demands. Consultant. in association with the Jodhpur Handicrafts Exporters’ Association (JHEA). he elaborated on aspects like. Mr. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 7 Workshop on Export Marketing Procedure & Documentation and Design Development This was conducted on 21st and 22nd January. there was a Technical Session. undertaken by the Council. Iqbal Perwaiz. Dr. and product innovation with possibilities/ limitations in existing product categories. training programmes. 2011. Titled. Abhinav Kant. Documentation and Payment Terms. North Western and South Western Regions of India. designer from NCDPD. Mohd. etc. made a presentation on Export Marketing . merchandising. 2011 at Jodhpur Common Facility Centres. at the Common Facility Centre. He also spoke on understanding and meeting market trends & demands. She also made an illustrative presentation on design trends & colour forecast. Professor. pricing & merchandising. Mr. Procedure & Documentation and Design Development' and 'Training Programme on Awareness of International Standards and need for Quality Compliances'. The first in the series were conducted in the woodcraft hub of Jodhpur in Rajasthan. He also touched upon methods for effective product launching. While explaining on pricing & . Jodhpur. putting a suitable price to a product that goes well with its look & utility. chaired by senior industry consultant. offered his guidance on need for upgradation in manufacturing technology & innovations. BCDI and Incharge. Programmes commence in Jodhpur EPCH initiated its series of highly informative and interactive programmes across handicraft production clusters in the Central. Hargaon. Sitapur. About 150 weavers. NCDPD emphasised on the need for a new design 8 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 The audience at the Sitapur Workshop cum Training Programme A display of products by weavers. Mr. spoke on the schemes of DC (H) and praised the efforts of EPCH for the betterment of the sector. Mr. as the chief guest. District Magistrate. exporters and artisans from Sitapur development centre in Sitapur. Mr. Rakesh Kumar. Jitin Prasad. EPCH Mr. Mr. Manager. On 23rd January. District Magistrate. Germany. 2011. Bangalore. NCDPD addressing the gathering at Sitapur Workshop cum Training Programme on Export Marketing Procedure. presented by woodware machinery specialists. Jodhpur. District Industrial Center. Mr. Rakesh Kumar. Kartik Mishra from Plantagchemie. Pawan Aggarwal. Product Quality and Upgradation of Technical Skills-Practical Demonstration was conducted by Mr. . Leitz Tooling Systems/HBR Consultants. Plantagchemie is a manufacturer/supplier of lacquers for the furniture industry. EPCH talked about extending complete support in setting up and functioning of the center and laboratory. District Industrial Center. at the Common Facility Centre. ED. R K Srivastava. The first included Practical Demonstration on New Finishes as well as Qualities of Raw Materials and their availability. The workshop cum training programme was graced by Mr. Union Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways and MP from Dhaurahra (UP) and Mr. Management and Packaging in Sitapur. Honorable Minister of Road Transport & Highway and Member of Parliament. there were two Technical Sessions. This technical session was followed by the last session of the programme based on Need for Upgradation in Manufacturing Technologies and Innovations. Seen on the dais (LtoR) Mr. ED. ED. Sanjay Kumar. addressed the gathering and appreciated the efforts of EPCH. R K Srivastav.focus Training Programme on Awareness of International Standards and need for Quality Compliances This was conducted on 23rd and 24th January. 2011. Nabi Nagar. ED. Sitapur District. Ltd. On 24th January. He discussed about the need of special efforts to upgrade artisans and craft persons from the region and announced opening of Common Facility Centre & Testing Laboratory at Sitapur by Govt. Pawan Aggarwal. General Manager. Uttar Pradesh In Sitapur. Prithvi Singh and his team from Minechem Pvt. the Technical Session on Quality Compliances. exporters and artisans attended the programme. Sanjay Kumar. Mr. Jitin Prasad. a Workshop cum Training Programme on Packaging Export Marketing Procedure and Management was organised on 29th January. at Purv Madhyamik School. presented by Mr. COA Member. 2011 at the EPCH Office. Mahaveer Institute of Management & Technology motivated the artisans to move forward and educated them about the registration procedures. Sharad Saxena. The relevance & importance of machine tools with emphasis on new finishes was explained. A K Hota. the Workshop on Export Marketing Procedure & Documentation and Design Development. K L Katyal. This workshop had 30 to 40 attendees. Arijit Dutt. Satendra Arya. their application & usage. O/o Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) briefing the audience on schemes of the DC(H) and Mr. G P Singh. Designer from Pearly Academy elaborated on social. Lecturer Bosky Aggarwal and Professor Vaishali Dhingra spoke on scaling up the quality of products. General Manager. Handicrafts Promotion Officer. Mr. A K Hota. at the Council’s Kolkota office in Kalighat. EPCH distributed certificates to artisans taking part in the training programme and assured them of future assistance. Designer. an Awareness programme on handicrafts product quality and training programme for the artisans and exporters was organised on 9th and 10th February. Arijit Dutt. Moradabad. Mr. Artisans were given training on design development and innovation. Director. was organised on 7th and 8th February. EPCH and Mr. Ms. Also various Govt. Lecturer. Teerthankar. This Kolkota programme had 48 attendees. 2011. Mr. West Bengal In Kolkata. SIDBI. Asstt. Paritosh Sharma. Ms. small and medium enterprises. speaking on schemes of SIDBI. Mr. Addl. Asstt. Sanjukta Roy.focus Workshop on Export Marketing Procedure & Documentation and Design Development in Kolkata. Mr. explaining the schemes of SIDBI Observations A glimpse of the audience at the Kolkata Workshop Among various programmes. So more light weighed products should be made which can also be reasonably low priced. design and quality compliances. O/o Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) briefing the audience Awareness cum Training Programme in Moradabad In Moradabad. Vice Chairman. Sanjukta Roy. Mahaveer Institute of Management & Technology. It had four sessions with Mr. Handicrafts Promotion Officer. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 9 . SIDBI. Pearly Academy elaborating on design and quality compliances Mr. offered information on development of handicrafts and marketing schemes. The growing significance of compliance as well as international standards & practices were also shared by the presenters. said reasonably low priced and beautiful material is given first preference in international market. Manager. Member exporters were given information on how the quality of products exported from Moradabad can be improved and made better. Budhi Vihar. Punjab National Bank educated the audience on the various schemes sponsored by the bank for micro. Teerthankar. Associate Professor. General Manager. DC (H) Bareilly. Anoop Shankdhar. Mr. schemes benefiting both the artisans and member exporters were discussed. there was training on latest machines. Convenor Southern Region. artisans. 1210. dental disorders. Treatments were given on various aspects of health like general medicine as well as specialised areas like eye.-Mr. Mr. Mr. this was put up exclusively for personnel associated with the wood carving industry in Saharanpur. Srinivas from O/O of DC (H) talked to the attendees. skilled and semi-skilled labourers. Sheik Faizan Ahmed. womens’ health.focus Symposium on Export Marketing of Handicrafts of Andhra Pradesh in Hyderabad A Symposium on Export Marketing of Handicrafts of Andhra Pradesh was organised in Hyderabad on 20th January. K L Ramesh. the doctors were presented with mementos. K R Nath and Mr. Sheik Faizan Ahmed. presided over the camp. throat. Tulsi Rao. seen with the team of doctors and members from EPCH & SWCMA 10 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . EPCH and leading exporters from the industry. inSaharanpur. K L Ramesh. Saharanpur EPCH and Saharanpur Wood Carving Manufacturers Association(SWCMA) organised a free health check-up camp on 19th December. where a team of 35 doctors treated around 945 patients with free medicines. 90% of the patients were crafts men. EPCH’s ConvenorCentral Region. EPCH’s ConvenorCentral Region. Conducted by Shri Guru Ram Rai Medical College and Mahant Indresh Hospital (Dehradun). skin. pediatrics. addresses the exporters in Hyderabad An EPCH official coordinates the programme Free Health Check-up Camp in Saharanpur supported by EPCH and SWCMA. on implementing innovative marketing strategies to export handicrafts from Andhra Pradesh. After the camp. Convenor Southern Region. Mr. EPCH. nose. etc. 2011. ear. bone health. not be a major problem for developing country producers when national laws and regulations already incorporate these standards. and/or contain further conditions related. of course. A proactive strategy on the part of local manufacturers will make it easier for them to cope with such standards and will also lead to significant benefits. environmental and safety norms. for example. 11 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 11 . Global brand producers and retailers increasingly require their suppliers from developing countries to comply with certain social. private standards imposed by producers of global brands and retailers may also go beyond national and local laws. improved efficiency and ultimately. However. including competitive advantages. Compliance should. safety and environmental issues required by brand producers and retailers when they source their products. These norms are increasingly referred to as 'private standards'. more exporting opportunities. to health and safety issues.F eature International Standards Social. some focus more on labour issues while others are mainly concerned with environmental and chemical issues. a supplier can react in one of two ways . The reactive approach implies that the supplier will comply with a new set of buyer demands each time it enters into a new business relationship.feature Strategies A buyer often requires suppliers to comply with one or more additional private standards on social and environmental issues in order to ensure its own reputation as a globally responsible brand and to avoid any potential negative publicity.by adopting either a reactive or a proactive approach. For example. labour issues). The proactive approach implies that suppliers adopt a more ambitious trajectory. while the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) code of conduct is mainly concerned with labour conditions in the supply chain. such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Social Accountability International standards denoting that the auditing process has been successfully completed against the requirements in the standard. It will probably spread even further around the globe as markets become more developed. meaning that a company/supplier has to comply with certain requirements in order to start or continue a business relationship. are showing growing concerns about the social and environmental conditions prevailing in countries participating in the supply chains of products that are sold into their markets. it also lays down environmental requirements. While some requirements are rather absolute. Faced with this situation. Some requirements may basically entail compliance with national laws. and the elements they include are also comparable (e. this is not a 'black and white' divide.g. regard to environmental and social performance criteria established in a standard.g. compliance is often a prerequisite for initiating and/or continuing a business relationship with such a global company. Types of Standards Suppliers and other exporting companies are requested to adhere to the requirements outlined in the buyer’s code of conduct. child labour. freedom of association). Products can also be labelled for the consumer in order to differentiate them with 12 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . When it comes to the content of private standards. Although a certificate is sometimes requested by a buyer. Product labelling often also involves certification of a company's working methods. as well as civil society organisations in those parts of the world. Again. Consumers in developed economies. Certification can be undertaken for products as well as for management systems. As a result. the proliferation of private standards which originated in Europe and the US is increasingly spreading to brands and retailers in the Asia-Pacific and Latin American regions. The growing importance and influence of private standards has some clear causes. the stringency of the requirements may still vary with the individual standard. the certification process is often initiated by suppliers in order to differentiate themselves in the market. while others go beyond the expectations of national governments. A certificate can also be issued on the basis of a private standard. Nowadays. the Oeko-Tex label stands for skin-friendly clothing or textiles. other requirements stress the need to make progress on a certain issue within a specific period of time. For example. Even when the focus of two private standards is the same (e. are initiated by a group of companies. Other benefits from compliance with the IWAY standard are sustaining the supplier's work force. The costs of compliance are to be borne entirely by the supplier. savings (e. The IWAY code has six initial. the largest home furniture retailer in the world. trade unions and/or governments. Some are company specific. severe safety hazards.g. IKEA has high quality and delivery-security demands. energy/waste). CRAFTCIL • January 2011 13 . increased competitiveness. Some standard owners (the entity who writes the standard) also get involved in the accreditation of third parties to certify the standard or they themselves may have a subsidiary company which certifies the standard. forced and bonded labour. The obvious benefit of complying with IKEA's code is that the supplier gains access to a customer who buys in large volume. actors with a 'stake' in the social and/or environmental problems at hand) may be involved in the development and governance of the standard. and providing workers with accident insurance. keeping records on working hours and wages. has formulated formal social and environmental requirements for its suppliers in the IWAY standard. Suppliers are thus fully aware of the buyer's requirements at the moment the contract is signed. Governance Private standards are either developed on a cross-sectoral basis or are more precisely targeted at a specific sector. inventory improvement. while others. and yet others have been developed in cooperation between companies. such as the Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI).feature IKEA’s IWAY Standard IKEA. non-governmental organisations. They relate to the prevention of child labour. and increased efficiency.e. better preparedness to comply with future requirements of other new buyers. Furthermore. Next to the social and environmental requirements. IKEA includes social and environmental requirements in its basic contract with suppliers. More and more buyers are introducing initiatives similar to the IWAY standard. basic requirements which are absolute musts before a business relationship can be formalised. which is applicable to all external suppliers and service providers. much in the same way that conditions like agreements on delivery volumes and timing are part of the contract. various 'stakeholders' (i. severe environmental pollution. feature The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Founded in 1993.g. which traces the wood from those forests through all stages of processing and distribution. Private standards that include product requirements. This means that a supplier needs to obtain the FSC Chain of Custody certificate (CoC). in principle. FSC-certified forests covered 120 million hectares worldwide (3% of the total global forest area)10. Examples of the latter are the FSC and Social Accountability International (SAI).g. developed in partnership with industry. SA 8000). and distribution until it is a final product ready for sale to the end consumer. making it possible for consumers. to recognise FSC-products. Wood and paper processing companies can be required by their buyers to use inputs that are FSC certified. such as SA 8000. 14 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . Application Another important aspect of private standards concerns the scope of application: some apply to business processes at the production site (e. while others also include requirements related to the products themselves (e. The Council developed the first large certification scheme for sustainable forest management and aims to improve social and environmental practices in forest management worldwide. by which it is differentiated from other products in its product group. or none. it is more of a sliding scale. it is the company that becomes certified. The system provides for two types of certification: forest management certification. and these have now become independent. social and environmental groups. include requirements on business practices. could also produce according to this standard and. not-for-profit companies. initiatives with involvement of civil society carry more customer recognition and public support. As of 1 January 2010. itself. Private standards that apply to a production site in its entirety. while the Oeko-Tex standard proposes labelling textile products in accordance with its requirements. either all business processes are certified. often involve labelling of the product. OekoTex). certify forest managers and companies. In general. Where the standard involves certification. For example. and chain of custody certification. A company can choose to make only products according to this standard but. such as health and safety requirements for workers and living wages. The FSC does not. as well as buyers. not a specific product. The FSC forest management standard is based on ten principles. it also offers certification of production sites. The application of private standards to products or production sites is not a clear cut issue. demonstrating that they have been produced in a responsible manner. When complying with this type of standard. rather it accredits certification bodies to do so. which ensures that a forest area or plantation is managed to high standards covering social. This so-called CoC certification refers to the path taken by raw material from being harvested from an FSC-certified source through processing. such as the absence of certain hazardous materials. environmental and economic issues. at the same time. the FSC is a non-profit initiative for responsible forest management. They originally established accreditation departments to ensure the governance of their schemes. maintain regular product lines as well (such as producing 'regular' t-shirts and 'organic' t-shirts). manufacturing. The certification involves product labelling. Conformity assessments of the social and environmental aspects of products require procedures that are followed in the whole chain of custody . the conformity assessments are either related to the product and/or the production site. • Comprehensive security. The Oeko Tex Certificate The Oeko-Tex certificate is limited to companies in the textile and clothing industry and gives proof of the human and ecological safety of textiles. The tests. In many cases. the brand which owns the standard. it confirms that the requirements of the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and of a common product class have been successfully tested. all actors in the value chain face increasing conformity assessment costs. Moreover.the channel through which products are distributed from their origin to their end use. none solely applies to the product. namely: • Appropriateness. including accessories. as well as the certification system. certification and suppliers' declarations of conformity. or include a combination of product and production site requirements. Depending on the application of the standard. The certification process starts with an application in writing from a manufacturer to one of the authorised testing institutes. which refers to the potential of harmful substances and is based on the principle that the more textile comes into contact with the skin. they either apply to the production site. verified and communicated. duplicate tests can be avoided by the use of certified source materials. For example. When the Oeko-Tex certificate is issued by the relevant institute or certifying body. comply with the specified test criteria without exception. conformity assessment embraces those activities which determine whether the requirements of the standard are met. can have an impact on corporate governance and other business processes. These audits are either conducted by the supplier itself (internal audit). The most common examples include testing. • Modular principles. the higher the human ecological requirement will be. auditing. are based on three principles. such as furniture produced from sustainably managed forest. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 15 Conformity Assessment A standard can have no impact in terms of market access if compliance is not required. or bio-textiles from organic cotton. or by an external party (consultants. in turn. which means that textile products may only be certified if all components meet the requirements of the product class. The tests for harmful substances are based on a test catalogue which includes the list of mandatory tests according to Oeko-Tex and the limit values of substances used in the production of textiles. Among the private standards selected for this feature.feature Furthermore. Given the growing scope and complexity of products that are covered by private standards. brands and retailers which require their suppliers to comply with certain conditions monitor this compliance by means of audits. This suggests that most private standards that lay down social and environmental requirements will also include production site requirements. compliance with product requirements implies that changes in production processes have been made and this. The certificate issued is valid for 12 months and the certified manufacturer is then entitled to mark successfully tested products or article groups with the Oeko-Tex label and is also permitted to use other forms of advertising relating to the standard. Instead. The testing and certification of textile products at all stages of processing is done by independent bodies located exclusively in the member institutes in Europe and Japan so as to ensure a consistently high level of testing. In basic terms. Certification involves extensive laboratory tests to prove that all components. the FSC chain of custody certification places high demands on the traceability of the certified wood and involves separate production lines and trained personnel. independent body or accredited . which make it possible to certify textile products at all stages of the processing chain. g. belief.or 14 for developing countries not included in article 2. Wages Must be at least equivalent to or higher than minimum wage laid down by local or national legislation. payslips. Employee should be free to leave. An auditor assessment of a company's social and ecological performance generally involves: • Physical observation of all the departments and machinery at the production site • Verification of documents (e. which may be attributable to the fact that each individual code has a limited scope of application –namely. As a general rule. known and analysed type of private standard. disrupt workflow.feature parties). national origin. Documentation confirming date of birth of workers Forced Labour No forced. promotion. ethnic background. termination and retirement. Some common denominators in buyers’ codes include : Child Labour Codes cite Minimum Age Convention of the International Labour Organization (ILO 138) and UN Convention on Rights of the Child. as more and more individual companies develop their own codes of conduct. Compliance with any local or national legislation that stipulates a higher age than 15. Although there may be disadvantages involved with buyer audits. access to training. birth certificates) • Interviews with company employees at all levels After data collection. In general. successful social audits bring significant benefits as well. all these buyer codes combined have an enormous outreach. Must be Buyers Code of Conduct (CoC) These codes comprise the largest group of private standards identified through the exporters’ surveys and they are also the fastest growing group of standards. which certainly justifies in-depth analysis. the buyer. benefits. material status. However. compensation. Minimum working age of 15 .g. religion. FSC). gender.4 of ILO convention 138 even when national provisions state younger age. disability. including a timeframe for implementation. political affiliation. Both the auditor and the production site manager discuss the corrective actions and agree on the steps required to ensure adherence to the requirements. while costs for certification are mostly covered by the supplier (e. it is argued that independent and third party accredited audit systems instil greater confidence that the standards are being applied consistently across suppliers. or both and they vary according to the particular standard. there are exceptions to this rule. sexual orientation. Recruitment and employment practices should refer to hiring. prison. The costs of auditing against private standards can either be borne by the supplier. Exporting companies sometimes show concern that audits will divert management time and resources. such as improvements in the production process and increased profitability through exporting large volumes to globally operating brands and retailers with significant market shares. Nevertheless. the auditors prepare a report which incorporates the audit findings and possibly a corrective and preventive action plan. audits by buyers against their codes of conduct are covered by the buyer (e. Nike Code of Conduct). No taking away of employee’s identification papers or passport.g. Non-Discriminatory No discrimination in recruitment and employment practices on the grounds of race. they are also the least well 16 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . However. it is a pact between the buyer company and its supply chain. thus creating a level playing field. bonded or involuntary labour. and/or challenge planning processes. they must assess their practices and policies against the requirements of the standard. e. Working Hours Normal working week should not exceed 48 hours. Overtime should be on a voluntary basis and should not exceed 12 hours in any single week. Freedom of Association Freedom for employees to join or organise a workers’ association and to engage in collective bargaining. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 17 . the process starts with an application to an auditing firm or certification body accredited by the Social Accountability Accreditation Services (SAAS). which means that the burden of proof is on the supplier. first aid kits and safety training. and the number of days the auditor needs to conduct the audit. When a supplier wishes to seek SA 8000 certification. Where the provisions of national or other applicable law improve on these conditions. trade unions. The SA 8000 is continuously developed and revised in close cooperation with companies.feature Social Accountability Standards In 1997. Some codes stipulate specific measures. scope and location of the factory.g. Total working week should not exceed 60 hours. Forced Labour. the supplier should pledge to make reasonable efforts to ensure that the requirements of this standard are being met by its own suppliers and subcontractors within its sphere of control and influence. water. the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the most relevant Conventions of the United Nations. Health & Safety Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations on health and safety. even where freedom of association is not permitted under national legislation. As a result. and Management Systems. ventilation. Compensation. This standard focuses on the social performance of a company and. suppliers should maintain appropriate records and ensure access to their premises and to reasonable information required by the auditor in order to demonstrate conformance to the requirements. It includes principles on Child Labour. in particular. Some codes also stipulate at least one day’s rest in any seven day period. These are the only organizations entitled to assess compliance with the standard and. The SAAS recommends contacting at least three such auditing firms to compare the cost of certification services. The fee typically ranges between US$500 and US$1. The fee is determined by each individual auditor and varies according to the size. The standard is verifiable and the verification process is evidence-based. Social Accountability International (SAI) started to develop a cross-sectoral standard for auditing and certifying corporate responsibility known as SA 8000. firefighting equipment. at least equivalent to or higher than the industry benchmark wage. No deductions from wages on disciplinary grounds. non-governmental organisations.500 per day. the employer should not prevent its workers from organising or joining an association. lighting. Employer should take pro-active measures to prevent accidents and injuries. Employer should provide a safe and healthy workplace. No disciplinary action is to be taken if employees join or organise an association. Around 44% of the suppliers were SA8000 certified and this percentage is expected to rise within the next two years up to almost 70%. emergency exits. to issue an SA 8000 certificate. sanitation. Discrimination. Overtime must be compensated. Discipline. consumer groups. Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining. These principles are based on the core ILO Conventions. Health and Safety. An Indian survey shows that the private standard most often referred to is the Social Accountability 8000. then the latter prevails. of manufacturers and suppliers. Should suppliers be obliged or wish to become SA 8000 certified. governmental agencies and certification bodies. Some codes also stipulate that. if appropriate. In addition. Working Hours. some buyers may be more demanding than others on specific points. In some instances. and to its implementation by signing up to ETI’s Principles of Implementation. Member companies report annually on their efforts and the results they are achieving at farm or factory level. the ETI Secretariat. The purpose of these visits is to check that the company’s management processes and systems for collecting data for its annual report are consistent and reliable. the codes do differ in some respects. Participating companies commit themselves to the ETI’s Base Code. Include provisions on pollution (air and water). Once company annual reports have been reviewed by the ETI Board. conflicting requirements with regard to the demarcation of emergency exits have been documented. 18 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . Some buyer codes of conduct refer to a separate policy document on environmental matters. Examples of additional requirements are. Similarities & Differences in Buyers CoC In view of the proliferation of buyer codes. related to maternity leave. sexual. facilities and living space. buyer requirements may even be conflicting. For example.feature Harassment Verbal. which is based on ILO conventions. while the one company may refer only to national legislation. which provide insights into the buyer requirements with which they are expected to comply. conducts random validation visits to a minimum of 20% of its reporting members. physical. limited toxic substances. or fail to honour their membership obligations. non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and trade unions aimed at improving working conditions in global supply chains. others may demand compliance with stricter international norms. Buyer codes show great similarity in the aspects they address and there is also a clear convergence in the requirements they lay down. If member companies do not make sufficient progress. The visits also help build dialogue with member companies about the progress they are making as well as any problems that arise. some buyers may join a multistakeholder initiative that conducts additional monitoring. fire safety. together with representatives from its trade union and NGO membership. or psychological harassment is not permitted. identifying areas where progress has been made and those where further action is required. Furthermore. Given these differences. ETI terminates their membership. The respect and dignity of employees must be ensured. Environment Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations on environmental matters. Nevertheless. or ventilation systems in production areas. a free meal for workers every day. which may include the following: respect of applicable legal requirements on dormitories. with one buyer demanding green demarcation and the other yellow. a supplier entering into a new business relationship may incur additional compliance costs even though it already complies with one or more other codes. the Secretariat provides detailed feedback to each company. Contract Labour Some codes stipulate that employees must be issued with a written contract. it is certainly advisable that exporting companies come to terms with the content of these codes. Housing Some codes include requirements on housing facilities for employees. For example. Each year. Efficient and responsible use of natural resources. for example. Ethical Trading Initiative The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is an alliance of companies. In addition to monitoring adherence to their own code. hazardous waste. and segregated showers and toilets for men and women. It is mainly focused on the UK market but is open to companies in other countries. and created a practical monitoring. the results of the IEM audits are published on the FLA web site and in the FLA Annual Public Report. Examples of these initiatives are the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and the Fair Labor Association (FLA). When violations are found. competitive price. in addition. colleges and universities. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 19 Strategies for Developing Country Suppliers When exporting to global markets.e. Such audits by multistakeholder initiatives are usually carried out unannounced. conducts verification audits to confirm ongoing progress in a sample of audited factories. The Fair Labor Association also responds to workplace labour violations through its Third Party Complaint mechanism. environmental and safety issues. and/or governmental authorities. since Adidas and Nike are members of the FLA. before considering these strategies. When a buyer is a member of such an initiative. ability to deliver orders in reqd. and one by the multistakeholder initiative. all companies are called upon to respect the laws that . Complaints are kept confidential and rigorously investigated. The FLA has developed a Workplace Code of Conduct. To ensure transparency. the FLA publicly reports them and works with all stakeholders to find sustainable solutions. remediation and verification process to achieve those standards. FLA reports on remediation efforts and. volumes). their suppliers are audited by FLA. In terms of social. the Fair Labor Association (FLA) is a collaborative effort of socially responsible companies. and civil society organisations to improve working conditions in factories around the world. However. company. developing country producers will. trade unions. The FLA requires that companies work with the factories to ensure that violations of the Code are corrected through the development and implementation of a remediation plan. need to fulfil a set of basic qualifications in order to trade. Multistakeholder initiatives provide independent verification on compliance with the social and/or environmental requirements laid down in codes of conduct. such as civil society organizations. its suppliers may face two different audits: one by the buyer.feature These initiatives involve multiple actors with a ‘stake’ in the social and/or environmental problems in question. with the latter ultimately enhancing the exporter’s competitive advantage in the market place. exporting companies can respond in one of two ways: by adopting a reactive strategy or a proactive strategy. suppliers in developing countries will – sooner or later – be required to comply with private standards. as part of a rigorous system of Independent External Monitoring (IEM) and public reporting on the conditions in their supplier factories. Faced with this situation. good quality. first and foremost. Companies that join the Association commit to establishing internal systems for monitoring workplace conditions and maintaining code standards. For example. alongside business actors. consistency and reliability. exporting companies need to meet some basic qualifications that will be determining factors in setting up a business relationship with global brands and retailers. based on ILO standards. to pass customs inspections and achieve premarket product approval if applicable). in addition to the buyers’ own audits. Fair Labor Association Incorporated in 1999.e. Irrespective of their location in the value chain. The FLA is the only labour rights initiative to publish the results of its systematic monitoring efforts. These are: sufficient scale ( i. or individual – can contact the Fair Labor Association to report code violations at a factory supplying products to an affiliated company. advocate. Anyone – a worker. ability to meet the target markets’ mandatory technical regulations and SPS measures including health and safety regulations (i. The FLA accredits independent thirdparty monitors and engages them to conduct unannounced audits annually of a group of randomly selected factories that supply products to FLA-affiliated brands. Clearly. in turn. on the other. improved health and safety measures might result in a decrease in absenteeism. unsurprisingly. suppliers may face a trade off between respecting norms on maximumworking hours and the company’s productivity level. A major problem encountered by suppliers is the trade off between buyer demands in terms of product prices and delivery times. Five things you should start doing when faced with a private standard 1. even a company that has not yet been confronted with private standards can already meet a large portion of compliance criteria without being externally audited or certified. enabled them to attract new clients. Employees may be required to be more productive in less time and. if buyer demands in terms of production time and volume remain high. or they may be producing for local. producers in developing countries may face dilemmas or tradeoffs between continuing their ‘business as usual’ and their buyers’ requirements. For example. Yet. Study the standard and identify the additional requirements 3. These investments do not only create export opportunities because brands and retailers require compliance. start a basic documentation system including as a minimum: • copy of all worker IDs • record of hours worked by each employee • record of salary earned by each worker 5. Designate a staff member to be trained and to be responsible for achieving and maintaining compliance with laws and regulations Getting Involved Private standards involve both costs and benefits. If you do not have one. Ensure you have copies of all relevant local laws and regulations that apply to your sector (incl. apply to them. Furthermore. and labour regulations) 2. However. many producers in developing countries have not yet encountered private standards. they will often also contribute to enhancing the company’s competitiveness and can make operations more efficient. per employee in relation to labour rights and norms. Virtually all the companies interviewed for this study indicated that their competitiveness has improved as a result of efforts to improve social and environmental conditions at their production sites since these changes 20 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . These companies are often found further down the value chain (e. and demands in terms of labour conditions. Make an internal audit list 4. they can result in higher returns. When first confronted with private standards. this is not always a welcome development for those employees. with subsequent rises in productivity. in the long run.g. environmental. many companies indicated that their efforts have boosted employee morale. regional or other markets that are less demanding in terms of social and environmental production conditions. on the one hand. many buyer codes of conduct prescribe a maximum number of working hours per week. health and safety. subcontractors of exporting companies) and might be selling through wholesalers or distributors.feature have. For example. Most of the costs should more properly be looked on as investments since. This reality can be tackled in either a reactive or proactive manner.feature Another common complaint is that the norms imposed by the predominantly western buyers may not naturally match the local culture. In all cases. they will need to comply with their codes of conduct. in reality. compliance may require unforeseen investment. To put it differently – either suppliers comply with their (potential) buyer’s requirements within an agreed timeframe or their contract will not materialise or will terminate after a certain time. work contracts and wish to work on a piece rate basis.Companies are advised to monitor the costs. instead of permanent. as this will create a record of the resulting benefits measured against the costs incurred. one of the companies in this survey indicated that its buyers pose restrictions on using temporary contract labour although. its (mostly female) workers tend to prefer temporary. they have to accept that private standards and buyers codes of conduct are not going to go away and. The latter course is recommended since the proactive strategy will bring with it competitive advantages in the long run. investments and benefits attached to private standards from the moment they start implementing the social and environmental requirements. if they wish to start or continue a business relationship with these buyers. establishment of a management and documentation system to comply with a buyer’s standards starts with five basic steps. Information derived from a research report by CBI. The fundamental rationale for exporting companies from developing countries who need to comply with social and/or CRAFTCIL • January 2011 21 environmental buyer requirements is simple. as well as knowledge and experience the company does not yet possess. When private standards pose requirements that go beyond national law. Basically. Netherlands . For example. Website: www. E-mail : renita. Handicrafts.acexpos. ceramic. fashion jewelry & ladies clothing. silk & rayon fabric in good prints.com Interest: Looking for suppliers on regular basis to supply work of arts and c rafts. Furniture. etc. London. embroidery & patch work (Hand work is preferred). Pictures & Photo Frames. Bathroom Textiles. Home & Office Design. Saudi Arabia Products: Decoration. Glasses. Telephone : 33 562 966 270 Fax : 33 562 966 202. 22 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 MAY 2011 Furnidex Arabia 2011 May 08-11. Veszprém. Fax: +965 539 3872 Email: [email protected] orthcoming events Forthcoming International Fairs & Exhibitions Events having EPCH’s Participation APRIL 2011 Hong Kong International Home Textiles Fair & Hong Kong Houseware Show April 20-23. Leather Items. textiles and wooden items. Telephone : 416-823-5507. decorative & gifts. 2011. Furniture. ABBARA TRADING CO.: +(203) 329-9553. Metalware.lic@hotmal. Kuwait Tel: +965 538 7100. E-mail : sarl. keen to promote Indian handicrafts in Canada. Looking for information on suppliers. Kuwait Products: Jewelry. decorative and gifts. Hong Kong Products: Fashion Jewellery & Accessories.com Global Interiors Home Collection Show March 13-17. Damjanich Janos u. FRANCE Contact : Faroud Lionel. Lighting. USA Products: Textiles.April 09. Russia Tel: +7 (495) 775-25-32.. Hong Kong Products: Bedroom Textiles. Fax: + 7 (499) 126-01-60 Email: [email protected]@orange. Csomagoló Kft. Jeddah. New York. 2011. Venue: Manezh Exhibition Complex Organiser: Gifts Expo Ltd.org Website: www. Table/Kitchen Textiles. 2011.com HKTDC Hong Kong Gifts & Premium April 27-30. Hong Kong Tel: (852) 1830 668. Website: www.com Interest: work of art & crafts.com. HUNGARY Contact : Sukanda Jaya. etc. Home Furnishings and Decoratives Venue: 295 Fifth Avenue. Moscow. Carpet & Floor Coverings.gifts-expo. 2011.com Interest: NRI from Canada. UK Tel: +44 (0)20 7223 3431. fashion jewellery and embellished ladies clothing. (852) 2240 4583 Fax: (852) 2824 0026. E-mail : spl@writeme. Decoration. E-mail : spl@writeme. 2011.. General Gift Items. Lighting Venue: Intl. Home & Office Design.com Gifts Exhibition Kuwait 2011 March 31 . 7/a. Csomagolo Kft. 7/a. Decorative Ceramics. Venue: HK Convention and Exhibition Centre Organisers for both events: HKTDC and Hong Kong Exporters’ Association. Porcelain. Baby Textiles.com .kif. Exhibition & Convention Centre Organiser: Al Harithy Company for Exhibitions Ltd.com Website: wshoulberg@hometextilestoday. Handicrafts Venue: Kuwait International Fairs Grounds Organiser: KIF (Kuwait International Fair). Other Events MARCH 2011 Gifts Expo March 21-24. Interior & Decor Textiles. AGENT IN CANADA Contact : Renita Fernandez. Russia Products: Gifts and Souvenirs. Veszprem. Email: [email protected] Business Opportunities ABBARA TRADING CO. party wear & casual wears in cotton.com Website: http://www. 2011. CNCL SARL 11 rue de la gare 65140 RABASTENS. +(646) 805-0226 Email: [email protected]. 230 Fifth Avenue and 7 West 34th Street Organiser: Home Textiles Today Tel.fr Interest: Looking for new suppliers porcelain. etc. Fax: +44 (0)20 7228 4229 Email: international@acexpos. HUNGARY Contact : Sukanda Jaya. Damjanich János u.hktdc. 03/2010-Cus dated 12. A decision to reject a certificate issued by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts)/ EPCH should be taken only with approval of the Commissioner of Customs / Central Excise and after discussions with the certificate issuing authority. In fact in any export group. drawback is either allowed on constituent materials separately or is allowed only on one of the constituent materials. 18-11-2011 referred to above is reproduced below: Export of handicrafts and artware items under Drawback Scheme . Notifications and Circulars of DGFT. Further. in the mean time. Copy of Custom Circular No. Certification only on the body of the shipping bill was insisted. 2. It has been reported by Moradabad Handicrafts Exporters Association and Export Promotion Council for handicrafts (EPCH) that following issue of this circular. Exports should not. The circular clarified that the assessing authorities should normally accept certificates issued by the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) / EPCH certifying the goods as artware/ handicrafts. Consignments not having such certificates were necessarily examined. There are many other useful clarifications in the custom circular referred to above. 3. be held up. Further at some field formations. Handicrafts exporters may please study the circular and insist upon the custom to go by the instructions in the circular. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 23 . The circular also clarified that consignments of artware and handicrafts should be classified in the Drawback Schedule in accordance with condition (3) of the Drawback Schedule which provides that all artware or handicraft items shall be classified under the heading of artware or handicrafts (of constituent material) as mentioned in the relevant chapters of the Drawback Schedule irrespective of their classification under the HSN. certificate from EPCH / Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) is being asked for each and every consignment of artware and handicrafts. Certification only on the body of the shipping bill is insisted citing the Board circular No. the Department of Revenue has issued a custom circular No D/2011-Custom. Consignments not having such certificates are necessarily examined. CBEC and Department of Revenue. exporters are deprived of the benefit of FPS which is available only on artware/handicrafts.C (H) for each and every consignment of artware and handicrafts to the effect that these items being exported were handicrafts only. the problem of classification is not as evident and typical as incase of handicrafts. dt 18-11-2011 containing the clarification that custom should not ask certificate from EPCH/D.1999. 7 dt. the seriousness of the issue was brought to the notice of Department of Revenue by EPCH. at some field formations certification by EPCH / Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) on invoices is not accepted.2010 regarding classification of handicraft and artware items in the Drawback Schedule. at some field formations. in case of artware or handicraft item made of more than one constituent material. It was brought to the notice of EPCH that Moradabad custom was asking for the certificate of EPCH/D. If a handicraft exporter has question[s] to ask on Foreign Trade Policy. 56/99-Cus dated 26. Recognising the seriousness of the issue.C (H) invoices were not accepted. the subjective may remain unreconciled.C (H) for all consignment as a routine but only in cases of doubt. It has also been represented that lamps/lanterns predominantly made of glass are not considered as handicrafts and exporters are not allowed to use the word 'handicraft' in the description while filing shipping bills for these items even when certificates of Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) certifying these goods as handicraft are submitted.com Impex # 1 EPCH succeeds in getting Custom Circular issued to remove custom classification disputes in customs in export of handicrafts Classification of many items sought to be exported as handicrafts becomes quite a difficult problem in customs in as much as certain objective and subjective. certification by EPCH/ D. Further. etc. Since the practice of the custom as detailed above was not only hampering export of handicrafts but causing harassment and losses to them. While serious differences of difference do not normally arise on account of objectives.reg. I am directed to invite your attention to the Board circular No. Characteristics of handicrafts have to be satisfied for the item to be categorised as handicrafts.I mpex This column is compiled by Consultant [EXIM Policy] of EPCH. It contains recent Public Notices. As a result.02.08. he/she may please write / e-mail to EPCH at policy@epch. 6. Q : What is the policy and limit up to which samples can be imported without payment of custom duty? Ans : Duty free import of samples up to Rs. packages/shipments selected by the EDI system for examination only should be examined unless there is some intelligence suggesting fraud/misuse. they should be classified as artware/ handicrafts in the specific headings provided for artware/handicraft items of iron. The service tax authorities are not allowing refund on such deduction.02. 300. Q : Are service tax refunds admissible for the quarter April-June 2007 as it was announced in the Foreign Trade Policy from 1. A suitable public notice for information of the Trade and Standing Order for guidance of the assessing officers and for strict adherence may be issued. Certification of EPCH/ Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) on invoices may be accepted notwithstanding anything contained in the Board circular No.. may use the certified photograph for subsequent export consignments of that product. If there is a doubt on such examination about the goods being artware/handicraft. It is also advised that as clarified by the Board vide Circular No.6/2002-Cus dated 23. Difficulties faced.2011. alignment of Drawback Schedule with the customs tariff is not applicable to artware / handicraft items. 5.02. Further.T. It is hereby clarified that certificate from EPCH/ Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) should not be asked for all consignments of Handicrafts/artware as a routine but only in cases of doubt.2007? Ans : Service tax Notification No. Ans : Refund is admissible on the gross amount received for exports. as clarified by the Board vide circular No.e.000 is permitted for all exporters as per terms and conditions of Customs Notification No 154 dated 13-07-94 as amended from time to time.08. The Board's circular No. covering those products more specifically. Normally. 6.2002 which prescribes examination norms for exports under drawback and other EP schemes should be applied to artware/handicraft consignments also.10. i. in lieu of the services provided by the bank. glass.2010.3/2010-Cus and as provided in condition (3) of the Drawback Schedule Notification No. you may approach the service tax authorities accordingly. iron and steel etc. Further. in implementation of the circular may please be brought to the notice of the Board at an early date.) dated 17. Deductions made by the bank from export remittance. Refund should be allowed on the gross earnings. brass. This exemption is operated through a refund mechanism.heading of the drawback schedule has been determined.1999. Being prospective in nature.2010. be held up. every consignment which does not have Development Commissioner (Handicrafts)/EPCH certificate.84/2010-Cus (N.impex 4. 3/2010-Cus dated 12. then the drawback rate and cap prescribed against that heading/sub-heading should be applied to the whole article irrespective of the value or weight of different constituents.01. The matter has been examined. in various chapters of the Drawback Schedule irrespective of their classification in the Customs Tariff / HSN and irrespective of whether there are other headings. artware or handicraft article made of more than one constituent material should be classified as if it is made of that constituent material which predominates in it by weight. in the mean time. certificates issued by EPCH/Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) should normally be accepted and a decision to reject them should be taken only with approval of the Commissioner and after discussions with the certificate issuing authority. in the Drawback Schedule elsewhere. Impex # 2 Frequently Asked Questions Q : Banks deduct certain commissions from the export remittance in lieu of service provided by them. 41/2001 exempts service tax on specified taxable service used for export of goods. 56/99-Cus dated 26. certificate from Development Commissioner (Handicrafts)/ EPCH may be asked for. If the export items such as lamps/lanterns are artware/ handicraft items. Exports should not.09. Once classification of such article in a heading/sub. As clarified by the Board vide circular No. if any. refund could only be sanctioned on taxable services provided on or after the date they are notified in the said notification. 3/2010-Cus dated 12. 24 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . Certification on photographs may also be accepted and the exporter. need not be examined.2010. if required.4. should not be deducted while granting refund. JNP/FIN/CT-R/2011/ 1378 dt.60 Coastal 1105 1349.impex Q : We have taken a zero duty EPCG authorization in the current year. c) The examination report and other endorsements made on the shipping bill/export documents prove the fact of export and the export product is clearly covered under relevant SION and or DEPB Schedule.3 to the effect that Status Holder Incentive Scrips (SHIS) will not be issued in the year in which Zero Duty EPCG authorization has been issued. b) On the basis of available documents the fact of use of inputs is satisfactory proved in the resultant export product. 800/. d) On the basis of S/Bill/export documents.90 1656. Scale of Rates for JNPT/NSICT & GITI is available at Site: www.2011 communicated by Shri K.tariffauthoroty.20 Coastal 1326 1619.) (Loaded) Terminal From Ship to Container Yard & Vice Versa Foreign JNPT NSICT GTI 2210 2699. V. to Northern India Shippers Association (NISA) vide reference No.02. Rajan. e) The exporter has not availed benefit of DEPB and no fraud/misdeclaration/manipulated initiated against him in respect of such exports.in. SHIS Scrips.84 2761. Senior Manager (Finance) as reproduced below for the information of all concerned members: Port Related Charges Per TEU (In Rs. JN Port is collecting Containers Rail Operation charges amounting Rs.90 From Container Yard to Railway Flat & Vice Versa Foreign 1105 1349. the exporter has fulfilled all conditions of the DEPB Scheme. Moreover. 400/.2011 Container related charges for ICD stuff containers at all three terminals of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust received from JNPT. Are we eligible to obtain SHIS in the same year? If not can we claim it during 2011-12? Ans : The Handbook of Procedure Vol 1 (RE 2010) has made it clear by providing in paragraph 3. 03.for 20" containers and Rs. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 25 .60 Foreign 3315 4050 4142 Total Coastal 2431 2970 3038 In addition to above. which are not issued in a particular year for the reason that Zero Duty EPCG authorization has been issued in that year. shall not be issued in subsequent years also. What are the conditions for such change? Ans : Conversion in such cases is permitted provided the following conditions are met: a) The request for conversation is made within three months from the date of the Let Export Order. Q : We want to convert a shipment erroneously made under advance Authorisation in November 2010 to DEPB.10.92 1380.92 1380. ATTENTION EXPORTERS Port related and other charges received from Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust dt. 10.01.for 40" containers.gov. The Park. and this time around leather will be in a plethora of colours. sequined pillows and rich satin fabrics. From glossy flooring. Glossy furnishings -Small spaces take well to supergloss/shiny surfaces as they help to reflect light and look airier than heavy wood. it would generate direct employment for at least 2. Leather flooring add sheen and texture. These units have not only sustained. 26 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . Around 24 industrial units are expected to come up in the Park and would manufacture bamboo based products like furniture. Satiny Fabrics .Although sequins may feel scratchy. Look for deep purple. no one will argue that their glitter and shine doesn't add a sense of party-glamour to a room. Mainly inspired by 1960s style. bamboo shoot and so on. dedicated power supply. Deep colours of charcoal grey and chocolate brown are popular colours right now. The foundation stone of the Park was recently laid by Assam's Industry Minister. Kitchen cabinets in eyepopping colours are in. beaded lampshade or a drapery panel dotted with a few shiny bobbles will add whimsy and celebration to a room. Source : Business Standard One of this year's big home decor trends is vintage shimmer and shine from the 1960s. The North-East is recognised as one of the largest reserves of bamboo in India and is home to more than two-thirds of the bamboo stock of the country. here are a few glittering trends to look out for this year : Shiny Floors . is expected to attract at least Rs 200 crore investment in future. flooring.The luxe look of silk/wool area rugs add rich colour and sheen to the floor. When completed. About 89 bamboo species out of 126 recorded in India grow naturally in the different forest types of this region or are cultivated across its tropical and sub-tropical belts.The soft sheen of leather is coming back. textile. Among other facilities. testifying the point that there lies enormous opportunity in setting up bamboo-based industry in North-East. which is being constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 63 crore. Made of recycled leather. effluent treatment plant. bamboo is fast becoming a viable substitute of wood in industrial applications due to the environmental hazards associated with tree felling. greens or pink colours landing on our floors soon. As a matter of fact. Pradyut Bordoloi. Upholstering a wall in faux leather or satin gives a luxurious hotel look to a bedroom. Sari fabrics from India are in. but have also been quite successful and are profit making. Heavy-looking coffee tables or dressers can be topped with thick glass to help create reflective surfaces and lighten the overall look. they add a sense of penthouse sophistication. The Park. Sequin and beads . a number of bamboo-based manufacturing units have sprung up in the North Eastern Region in past few years. the Park will have a state-of-the-art common facilities centre. which would be commissioned within 2 years. handicrafts. the simple furniture shapes with fashionable coloured leather will help make a statement in the living and family room. incense sticks. would be an environmentfriendly complex spread over a sprawling area of 60 bighas of developed land. Mr. research and development centre and an artisan training centre. button-tufted sofa upholstered in a thick satin fabric. creating employment opportunities for the locals.000 people. A decorative sequined pillow. Leather not your style? Consider a traditional styled. Worldwide.N ews briefs Vintage shimmer and shine trends from 1960s dominant Assam to get country’s first Bamboo Park to be comissioned within 2 years Bamboo-based industry in Assam and North-East is up for a major transformation as Assam will soon have the country's first and a state-of-the-art Bamboo Technology Park to boost bamboo cultivation in the state and the region. various emerging trends in this product category will lead to a CAGR growth of around 9. EPCH.24.07.2% during 2011-2013.03. Exemption on Service Tax paid by exporters while participating in intl. if the space in the same fair is booked by exporters directly. Saudi Arabian furniture industry has emerged as a fast growing and highly untapped industry during the past few years. thereby making it difficult for the Council to generate participation.03. Only few banks have base rate of 8%.10. says RNCOS in its latest research report. The members of the Council while participating in International shows have to pay service tax on the participation charges when they pay in Indian rupees to the Council. The office furniture segment has also witnessed growth during the past few years with country's trail to diversify its GDP in non-oil sectors.03. According to the research report "Saudi Arabia Furniture Market Analysis".2009) to be extended and made available on all handicraft items. Some alternative materials are used in view of environmental concerns to reduce the consumption of wood. In view of this it is desirable that the interest rate subvention of 2% due to expire on 31.11. the housing industry has witnessed tremendous growth in the past. This has infused growth in the household furniture market of Saudi Arabia. 43/2007-Service Tax dated. exemption from Income Tax under 10BA for all handicrafts items and continuation of ‘subvention of interest’ were strongly represented. Raj K Malhotra. Further growth in this segment will be led by various economic cities development along with MNC's business expansion in various regions of the Kingdom. (c) Exemption from Income Tax under 10BA The decline in handicrafts exports has been arrested in 2009-10 but in order to sustain the growth and achieve the export target the benefit under section 10BA Income Tax Act (earlier available for wooden handicrafts till 31. With the entry of a number of real estate developers and increasing demand for residential property. led an EPCH delegation for an interactive consultation with the Finance Minister.2007 and also extend exemption beyond 31st March 2009. The futuristic trend in furniture production is very much balanced.2010. waiving of Service Tax on membership fee of the Council. It means the export credit shall not be available at 7% on export as is available to agriculture inspite of the fact that ‘export’ too is a priority sector like ‘agriculture’. Mr.com) specialises in Industry intelligence and creative solutions for contemporary business segments. The service tax in such cases prove as an extra burden to the exporters. exemption has been provided for payment of service tax on the annual membership fee of Export Promotion Councils till 31. furniture production is skewed towards household segment and office furniture's account for a low but growing share. etc. 29.332/34/2008-TRU dt. EPCH’s Pre-Budget Proposals for the year 2011-2012 (a) Adding the name of EPCH in Service Tax Notification no. it is not required to pay the tax when he remits fees in foreign currency such as US$/ GBP / Euro. Various economic cities construction in the Kingdom will constitute Million's Sq m of commercial and residential space in future.2010 ‘rupees export credit interest rates’ will be charged by the banks with reference to ‘base rates’.03.2% during 2011-2013. In the Budget for 2009 announced on 06. All others have base rates above 8%. The Export Promotion Council of Handicrafts has not been included in spite of repeated requests in the matter and is finally pending with the Department of Revenue F.2011 is continued beyond 31.2009. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 27 EPCH meets Hon’ble Finance Minister pre-budget consultations well recieved .03.2011 With effect from 01. The research has also identified the main product categories. Issues like Service Tax for participation in Business Exhibitions in India and overseas. At present. RNCOS (rncos. The points raised were well received during the discussions and EPCH hopes that the handicrafts sector will certainly attract the attention of all concerned at the highest level and will be able to garner benefit in the forthcoming budget.07.2008. Chairman. to discuss issues required to be addressed in the forthcoming Union Budget 2011-12. which are leading the household furniture market in the Kingdom. The Ministry of Finance issued an exemption notification wherein ten EPCs have been allowed to provide the relief to their member exporters for participation in business exhibition.news briefs Household furniture market to flourish in Saudi Arabia The household furniture market in Saudi Arabia is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 9. (d) Continuation of ‘subvention of interest’ of two per cent beyond 31. shows. (b) Waiving of Service tax on Membership fee of the Council. As per RBI directive no bank is allowed to charge less than its ‘base rate’.2011. However. It is requested that this exemption should be made permanent. Its main agenda would be to examine how to promote use of fibres equitably as to ensure a balanced growth of the entire textiles chain keeping in view the future trends and the present consumption pattern both for domestic and export markets.“the Govt. youth. demonstrations. I am sure the Finance Minister will provide more funds for the Scheme if there was a need” He also announced the constitution of . their design development and use of the latest technology in making them. It will submit its report within three months.Thiru Dayanidhi Maran. school of art. textile. Each training programme will be made comprehensive and focused so as to enable various learner groups to acquire skills. 28 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 TUFS to resume Govt. This is expected to offer opportunities especially to rural youth and women to get exposure to the new products of rural. Thiru Maran said. he said. Under the scheme.140 crore to wipe out the pending applications as also to provide for new applications during the current financial year on July 31 only. The panel has representatives from the Govt. Azulejos tiles and also the languishing native crafts of the state. Noting that the President gave her assent for the Finance Bill. The policy would be unveiled before the end of the year. reputed national design and industrial training institutes etc.news briefs Government scheme for Goa artisans training programmes to be conducted With the aim of generating self-employment. 2. my team of officers have been able to process all applications filed before June 30 and work out the mechanism for crediting the amounts in the accounts of the beneficiaries in a record period of three days” . a visibly proud Minister said. state directorate of craftsmen training. Ms. which provided for an allocation of Rs. a 41-member working group headed by Textiles Secretary. Experts from within and outside Goa will provide the training and assistance will be obtained from government polytechnics. the Goa state government has formulated a scheme under which three different types of handicrafts training programmes will be conducted in order to prepare various handicrafts and allied items. Maran had announced a plan to set up the committee. announced that all applications for subsidies under the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) up to June 30 have been processed and the amounts would be credited to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries. etc. small scale handloom. 3. In all. gears up to boost textile units In a major development for the textile sector. coconut shell crafts. seminars. terracotta. . Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Ltd (GHRSSIDC) is to conduct training programmes. khadi. Rita Menon to formulate a National Fibre Policy. which can withstand the rigorous demands of the market for quality parameters.546 crore. design development workshops. This is the largest amount ever released under the scheme in a single tranche. etc for artisans. village utility items/cottage industries items. consisting of a batch of 20 to 30 candidates each all over Goa. Mr. “within six days. The GHRSSIDC will also organize specialized training programmes aimed at improving the skills of existing artisans by getting specialized trainers/subject matter specialists from reputed design institutes. 12. is fully geared to help the textile sector. in addition to traditional handicrafts items.. The GHRSSIDC will lay emphasis on drawing up training programmes for native Goan handicrafts like brassware. At the time of assumption of office itself. Goa Handicrafts. the trade and the user industry. the Union Textiles Minister. members of self-help groups etc.514 applications have been cleared and the subsidy amount totalled Rs. Mr. ED. An initiative by the Ministry of Textiles in association with 11 Export Promotion Councils. Mr. A total of 116 member exporters participated in this show. CEPC. Minister of State for Textiles. 2011. this exposition featured AEPC (as the lead Council). Mr. immediate past President. HEPC. Mrs. Dayanidhi Maran. Raj K Malhotra and ED. Pranab Mukerjee in the presence of Union Minister for Textiles. Hon'ble Minister of Finance. Ministry of Textiles and ED. This was inaugurated by Hon'ble Minister of Finance. EPCH put up a select showcase of North Eastern crafts at an exclusive Theme Pavilion as well as a special staging of IFJAS-its sector specific show on fashion jewellery & accessories. jute and carpets. Thiru. Dayanidhi Maran. textiles.FIEO. spread over 50. Minister of State for Textiles. Chairman. Rita Menon. EPCH. Mr. Mr. Mr. EPCH. Pranab Mukerjee being greeted by Union Minister for Textiles. Panabaka Lakshmi. TEXPROCIL.000 sq. mts. at the Tex Trends India 2011 inauguration ceremony Above: Union Minister for Textiles. 2011 Select showcase by EPCH member exporters The maiden edition of Tex Trends India 2011 ran a successful course from 2-4 February. Panabaka Lakshmi. Rita Menon and other dignitaries at the EPCH’s display area with Chairman. The exhibition. Secretary. Rakesh Kumar CRAFTCIL • January 2011 29 . PDEXCIL. 2-4 February. Mrs. Mr. Thiru.E vents in india Tex Trends India 2011. New Delhi. S S Gupta. A Sakthivel and chairmen of various Export Promotion Councils. Mr. Mrs. Rakesh Kumar. WWEPC and Indian Silk EPC. Secretary & FA. Mr. at Pragati Maidan. Dayanidhi Maran. handlooms. Mr. Textiles. Secretary. DC (Handicrafts). National Jute Board. EPCH. R K Srivastav. Addl. Saurabh Chandra. Below: The dignitaries at the North-East Theme Pavilion At the fair grounds: DC (Handicrafts). Mrs. Thiru. Mr. S S Gupta. NCDPD. Textiles. WWEPC. SRTEPC. EPCH. Raj K Malhotra . covering almost 800 stalls not only showcased garments and accessories but also a wide range of products like home furnishings. EPCH. incremental revenue from current customers. you must have a detailed event plan that covers: Pre-show initiatives. buying power and decision-making ability. and Post-show follow-up. Limiting time to produce promotional items Waiting to the last minute to have your exhibit booth and other items developed is one of the biggest trade show mistakes you can make. you need to make sure you have a handle on all your projected expenses and forecasted revenue so you can determine a returnon-investment for each show you attend." "medium" or "high" opportunity prospect. When things are rushed. Trade Show mistakes can significantly impact results. focused implementation and timely follow-up to fully realise your sales potential from your event strategy. They are a direct reflection of your company and its quality.Your trade show results are directly tied to the effectiveness of the people who work your booth. culture and service. which can erode your profit. Essential to your plan are specific objectives that describe what you want to accomplish such as leads generated. This is essential to determining if your product is a good fit and if a booth visitor is a "low. Not training booth staff It may seem like common sense. Activities during the event. It takes thoughtful planning. Without proper training. sales completed. but it is not unusual to see staff at trade show exhibit displays potentially hindering exhibiting success through their behaviour 30 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . etc. Planning the participation : Failing to craft a plan with quantifiable objectives To ensure success. tracking and followingup on all leads with an appropriate action plan. Be sure they are fully trained on objectives of each show as well as: • The specific sales message that must be consistently delivered • Which high-opportunity prospects/customers will be at the event • How to perform effective product demonstrations • How to engage booth visitors and collect lead information • What materials to give visitors and how you want it done Collecting inconsistent or incomplete lead information Your booth staff must be well trained on how to quickly and consistently assess. some staffers may not realise how inadvertent actions and appearances can impact an organisation's reputation and sales effectiveness at a show. mistakes are easily made and corners are sometimes cut. a lead tracking system based on your product or service must be in place for collecting. in and around their booth area. you may incur significant rush and overtime charges. visitors' interests. As a result. In addition. through two-way dialogue.S trategies Trade Show Success planning & executing a successful participation Effective exhibiting can contribute substantially to revenue generation. Your image and effectiveness is at stake when you do not allow enough time to produce everything you need for your exhibit. needs. Neglecting to develop a detailed budget As part of your planning process. or just doesn't like you. admittedly. The longer you take to make contact with the customer. Arm your trade show sales team with some corporate history. Your job is to get them talking and once an attendee starts talking. This works fine in a social situation. either by email or phone. The key to this is five questions. By engaging attendees in conversation. questioning and listening more than talking. People can tell when you're really listening and when you're going through the motions. Don't try to 'phone in' your interest. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 31 . How: How your company conducts itself is becoming a much more important factor to many of today's decision makers. the Familiar Five that should be part of every trade show sales conversation: What: What exactly does the attendee need? Perhaps the product works perfectly. What about the contacts that aren't considered good prospect or leads? Email all attendees who provided their contact information. they are far more likely to spend some additional time at your exhibit. attendees want to know they can count on that as fact. especially if the staff is of large stature and the attendee is smaller. you are far more likely to make a sale the attendee is satisfied with. have a tendency to talk with their hands. dramatic types. Keep things open: Very skittish or shy types may subconsciously feel 'trapped' if you position yourself between them and the way out of your exhibit. When: When your trade show sales team says something. especially the flamboyant. Pay attention! Post Show Evaluations : The close of the tradeshow doesn't mean the work is over. Focused. attempting to cram in as much information as you can. A good rule of thumb is to keep at least one arm's length between the two of you. but can be unnerving or distracting when you're trying to do business. Keep your arms down: Some trade show sales staffers. but follow up is where many tradeshow exhibitors fall short. You need this answer before you can move on to any other questions. A million subtle physical cues give it away. But don't. sales point or offer you were promoting at the show. but it's too expensive. Body Language Now. Keep an ear: Open for what the attendee is saying. If you have the slightest suspicion that an attendee is uncomfortable. the more chance there is of another exhibitor getting their business. it can be difficult to fit all of the above into the thirty seconds you have with the average attendee. Timing is critical. Keep your distance: Crowding can be intimidating. do you offer 24 hour support? Who: Relationships are key to business. There are five key things to remember. Don't let a hot prospect become a cold lead because too much time has passed before you've made contact. Clients want to know you have a track record and that you'll maintain it when they remain with you.strategies At the show : Focused Approach Train your trade show sales team to have a needs-focused approach. Thank them for stopping by your booth and repeat the message. Your post-show strategy should be fairly simple: call the most serious prospects within two days. aggressive follow up is how the sales are made. hand them off to another staffer. Why: Why would your company be the best suited to meet the attendees' needs? If they mention constant technical difficulty. Keep an eye: On the way the conversation is going. You don't have to be an Old West Cowboy with this there's no need to always stand with your back to the wall but be aware of spatial issues and attempt to keep things open and comfortable. and truly focusing on solving the attendee's problems. The temptation is to talk faster. Then follow up with all your leads within five business days. Sometimes personalities just don't click. and it's better to step out gracefully than attempt to blunder through the encounter. Consumers want to avoid being tainted by association with any scandal-ridden firms. Body language also plays a role in how your trade show sales team is perceived. along with selling points that illustrate how things have changed in the interim. 000 20. This can include putting them on your newsletter mailing list.000 9.750 21.000 25.600 4. or sending them articles or whitepapers about your industry.000 extra production charge.250 68. Email : mail@epbureau.: +91 11 22246094. Make sure you have detailed your follow-up strategy in your initial trade show plan and have everything you need for immediate implementation upon your return.500 34. The goal is to cultivate these leads and keep actively engaged with your company until they are ready to purchase.000 28.000 64. budget/ expense reconciliation. Failing to complete a show evaluation To ensure you hedge against any trade show mistakes in the future. you need to follow-up with a phone call. Waiting too long or not doing lead follow-up Ignoring your trade show leads once you return from your event is like leaving money on the table.600 5.000 12. or to answers questions.000 (6-8) 15% 42.000 29.com Advertisement remittance in advance favouring ‘Shreya Comnet’ Delhi (HDFC A/c with Mayur Vihar Phase II. 2011 and are subject to change. Prioritise your leads.000 35. inviting them to participate in webcasts.950 4.100 6.000 15. Fashion & Lifestyle Products Industry Size / Position No of Insertions Discount Offered Back Cover Inside Front Cover Inside Back Cover Full Page Colour Full Page B&W Half Page Colour Half Page B&W Display Box Colour Display Box B&W Gatefold on cover* Rates per insertion in Rupees (1-2) None 50.375 23.5% 46.000 12.000 32. Prospect your "Turn Downs" Obviously not all your leads will be interested in buying your product or service.000 (3-5) 7.875 11. personal letter and/ or hand-written note to turn 'warm" leads into "hot leads and eventually into buying customers.000 12.000 80.625 74. and a return-oninvestment calculation.strategies Not all leads are created equal.125 18. always complete a show evaluation that includes quantifiable measures such as goal attainment.000 (9-12) 20% 40. Inputs : Trade Show Advisor Advertise in CRAFTCIL Reach out to the Home.000 40.500 13. Evaluate your performance One of the most important post show activities is to evaluate your performance to help you plan future events. Delhi 91 branch CA No-02932560000061) 32 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . In addition. do so the next day. 64631211.000 5.200 5.250 17. Give them an alternative to purchase and offer a way to keep in touch.000 16. For bookings / queries contact: SHREYA COMNET Tel.000 20. Which need specific information and which need more general information such as a fact sheet? Hot leads need an immediate follow up-the next day-with either a phone call or email.000 7. sales packet. CRAFTCIL is the monthly official publication of the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) reaching all its members (7000+) besides other recipients and subscribers.000 * Every gatefold insertion would attract Rs 20.250 37. This doesn't mean that warm or even cold leads should be ignored. Within a day (preferably) and a week at the most.000 32. the real reason for your follow up. PS: Rates are effective January.475 4. This is the time to provide the quote they asked for. If you were asked to provide information to someone who has decision-making authority.750 10. discuss qualitative factors with your booth staff that may impact how and where you exhibit in the future. This market is also attended by half a million attendees. 1 entrepreneur deputed by O/o DC (Handicrafts) and 2 Govt. The Council put up the India Pavilion in an area of 800 sq. including HD Home. stationery and many others. one of the premier events for wholesale gifts and home furnishing companies. reviews were strong and getting stronger as exhibitors tallied sales and retailers departed with good orders placed and optimism running high for 2011. Prime visitors include importers. This was hosted by Americas Mart Atlanta. attendance gains approached the double-digit mark. This edition was in full swing. According to a release from the market center. carpets. This January marked the debut of several new categories and events. ft. The visitors appreciated the unique craftsmanship and even tried their hands at craft making. rugs & other floor coverings. exporters and representations from children's stores. brings together over 50 states of host country-USA and over 90 countries from across the world. Arvind Vadera. department stores. Sampling display products by Master crafts persons at the India Pavilion A buyer stands next to the EPCH’s promotional booth Promotion of IFAS 2011. Atlanta. USA Atlanta Gift & Home Furnishings Market 2011. etc. The spectrum of exhibitors included specialists in garments. Global Designs and design-drive Home presentations. It had 5 National Award winning master crafts persons. EPCH also prepared a brochure for awareness and brand image promotion of Indian traditional handicrafts. COA Member-EPCH. who coordinated members' participation in the event and actively represented & motivated them. At the market's closing bell. attendance was high and the mood was very upbeat. The EPCH team was led by Mr. linen & textiles. decorative accessories. Jodhpur at the show CRAFTCIL • January 2011 33 . In addition to the exhibition of Indian handicrafts. Birding & Backyard Nature. organisations-ARTFED & PSIEC.E vents overseas EPCH at Atlanta Gift & Home Furnishings Market 14-18 January. tabletop. gift & toy shops. furniture. EPCH arranged for the live demonstration of craft making by the National Award winning crafts persons. engaged in buying gifts and home furnishings. florists and gardeners. Belgium. Netherlands. New products and innovation technology were demonstrated by many companies here. home decoration. Souvenirs and gifts are exhibited within the Gifts and Souvenirs Salon. India. Leather Haberdashery. general gifts. Being one of the largest and prestigious exhibitions in Eastern Europe. antiques. home electronics/ appliances. etc. Consumexpo. This edition gathered participation of over 500 companies from 21 countries like. bathroom items. leather products. Turkey and Vietnam. Italy. leisure items. Portugal. EPCH participated with a team of 6 master crafts persons and 1 entrepreneur. Bangladesh. Latvia. sports & health items. Clothing and Accessories Salon is located in a separate pavilion. all showcasing various categories of crafts like. Poland. 34 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 A view of the Indian Stand at Consumexpo Live demonstrations of traditional Indian crafts by national awardee Master crafts persons at Consumexpo. coconut shell carving. Italy and Bangladesh showcased their national expositions. As per feedback. Great Britain. personal accessories. He advised them to adopt designs accordingly for competing in the market. Second Secretary. kitchenware. Japan. importers and exporters of garments.events overseas Indian crafts skills entice Russian connoisseurs 17-20 January. China. Consumexpo attracts manufacturers. A display of products by master crafts persons was also made and a live demonstration of their skills also took place during the event. This year they launched a new Business Development and Ready Solutions thematic section. Belarus. kota saree. France. enquiries in large numbers were registered besides good export orders. Austria. Denmark. The Footwear. Serbia. Hungary. Moscow. Russia The 23rd edition of Moscow’s acclaimed Consumexpo was organised at Expocentre Fair grounds from 17th – 20th January. Spain. He interacted with participants and informed them about consumers’ choice in Russia. 000 sqm. Moscow. Russia The Homestyle Salon and Forum Pavilion display a wide range of household products. furniture. 2011. kanni shawls. Germany. chickan embroidery. . The India Pavilion was visited by Mr. Indian Embassy. straw picture making. Gulab Singh Mehra. This UFI event takes place under the auspices of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Moscow Government. home repair items. thewa art. Czech Republic. Russia. The exhibition spans an area of over 10. 2011. Apart from one-to-one meetings with the furniture exhibitors of the show.000 visitors to CRAFTCIL • January 2011 35 . to be held at Jodhpur from 6 . The show is also known as The International Furnishing Show. Germany Cologne . a series of meetings were also held with trade associations’ representatives present at the show to discuss the possibility of future association with the Indian Furniture & Accessories Show. This edition had 1213 companies from 48 countries which included 521 exhibitors and 32 additionally represented companies from Germany as well as 614 exhibitors and 46 companies from abroad. the exhibition halls became transformed experience of future furniture. 2.events overseas EPCH promotes IFAS at international furniture show 18-23 January. It generates 40% of Europe's entire GDP. The once in a year IMM Cologne is organised by Koelnmesse gmbH. Cologne. at the first interior design exhibition of the year.000 m² of exhibition space in 11 connected trade fair halls with 100. traditionally. A buyer gathers information on EPCH’s IFAS from the Council’s booth The Council participated in IMM Cologne. IMM Cologne. Germany in its endeavor to promote its forthcoming product specific fairIndian Furniture & Accessories Show. The City of Cologne is Germany's fourth largest city and a hub of the European transport network. In order to generate awareness about the show and encourage buyers to visit the Indian Furniture & Accessories Show. Through inspired presentations. making it the largest trade fair company that operates its own site. The events drew around 138.2.5 m² was taken by EPCH at IMM Cologne show in Hall No. Koelnmesse stages around 70 international trade fairs and more than 2000 conferences. Foreign companies made up for about 54 percent of exhibitors. IMM Cologne showcased trends for the coming months. a promotional booth of 12. 2011. the new furniture and design year starts with IMM Cologne.000 m² adjacent outdoor space.8 March.an increase of 38 percent over the previous edition. In the furniture industry it is said. The exhibition center is the fourth largest in the world with 284. A lot of visitors turned up at the booth and enquired about the show and the special promotional scheme launched by the Council for the overseas buyers. Also in 2011. They are joined by pretty but modest basic forms with boxy or rounded contours. the aesthetics are defined by angular and folded structures. Surprising Empathy. This playful mixing with new technologies and the piecing together of old and new details are symptomatic of a desire to dismantle and rearrange that finds particularly strong expression in this trend: The cards are being reshuffled. With filigree forms and soft colours. And yet despite their severity. In their search for the essence of things. Light and flowing materials form a contrast with their cold and heavy counterparts. accompanied by ash grey and black and brightened up with vibrant dashes of citrus yellow and mandarin orange. these austere beauties appeal to both our heads and our hearts. an earthy olive hue dominates over lush and pale shades of green and is joined by powder shades from rosé to brown. Re-Balancing and Transforming Perspectives Interior Trends for 2011 from IMM Cologne Emotional Austerity As bittersweet as dark chocolate Austere beauties: The elegant ambiance is defined by clear and unostentatious aesthetics. The dominant colour is a cold grey. 36 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . What looks light turns out to be heavy and resilient. On the whole. leather.T rends Emotional Austerity. while honeycombed and woven structures add depth to two-dimensional surfaces. felt and plant fibres are complemented by technical fabrics. A light taupe mediates between grey and white and adds a little softness to the colour scale. the designers encounter classic and established forms that are equipped with new functions and produced with high-tech. the forms and lines are anything but cold. This applies to both forms and materials. Surprising Empathy A surprisingly warm welcome Shedding ballast: Who says the future isn't sensual? New forms and new materials are teaching us a new way of seeing things. Instead they betray the passion of their makers and owners for details and quality. The colours and materials are dominated by nature: wood. what seems heavy and solid captivates us with its lightness. Volumes appear airy or are reduced to their outline. a symbol of the search for personal. in a response to the nature cult. The protagonists try to convey their newly gained insights with the aid of archaic forms. and wherever people are content with their own company. this Interior Trend (unlike "Emotional Austerity") is not so much interested in a long-term relationship as it is in a snapshot. What doesn't fit is made to fit. The surface textures are knitted or woven. The preference is for natural materials. it is in the generally so tranquil world of harmony-seeking family-minded consumers that the box is becoming the epitome of universal furniture. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 37 . The experimental workshop of "Transforming Perspectives" prefers to work with foamed metals. A great deal of importance is attached to material finishes. glass and metal fabrics. A dark plum-blue provides the dominant background for both an artificial lavender shade and a dove-grey with a violet shimmer. the hype surrounding cult objects or "green design". corn-yellow and tan shades ranging from light brown all the way to terracotta. simple solutions and it-products taken to cliché-like extremes. composite mineral materials. to polished or matt surfaces. A warm rhubarb-red radiates positive energy and warmth and is combined with creamy-white. meaningful pieces populated by truly practical things .trends Re-Balancing Reconfiguring the world Furniture that thinks outside the box: Perhaps surprisingly.soft padding or sheepskins emanate a sense of luxury. the furniture ought to be unpretentious too. Important features are emphasised in a caramel shade with a metallic-glow.icons of everyday life. occasionally even hand-spun. Even angular and simple individual structures can be fashioned into rounded and astonishingly comfortable opportunities for retreat . Transforming Perspectives Simple forms for complex things Material as an experiment: As in performance art. trends Luster. with both these tendencies the emphasis is on freeflowing forms that create a sense of natural organic design. or how largescale objects such as London landmark Big Ben can be scaled down and reimagined as wall clocks while retaining their architectural silhouette. This trend is based upon the idea of bringing life to design through the inclusion of animal motifs. The trend also includes household objects such as soap dispensers comprising blocks of white and chrome.how household objects such as Umbra's stackable fishbowl can be increased in size and retain their functionality. Animate Structure Inspired by architecture. Brights Bringing color to everyday previously unnoticed objects is the main theme in the Brights trend. this trend is primarily about scale . 38 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 . oranges and yellows. deep wall designs that literally stand out from the wall and draw the eye through the use of white on colored backgrounds. Organic This trend is similar to the "Transforming perspectives" movement identified by IMM Cologne.thick unframed wall mirrors in the shape of old fashioned hand held devices. Umbra products that fall under the category of Luster include Fairest Mirrors . However in this trend the "cuteness" of the animals in question is contrasted by their functionality and the material in which they are made . Whites The Whites trend is characterized by solid. Brights and Whites Luster The Luster trend is all about adding gloss and shine to everyday designs using bold reflective materials and glossy brass and chromes.namely chrome or soft plastics. Previously average and functional household objects such as stools or photo boxes are transformed with either solid blocks of blue or streaks of radiant pinks. CRAFTCIL • January 2011 39 . 40 CRAFTCIL • January 2011 .